Low Carb Pepes Tongkol (Indonesian Spiced Tuna Steamed in Banana Leaves)

Embark on a flavorful journey with this Low Carb Pepes Tongkol, a traditional Indonesian dish that encapsulates spiced tuna fillets steamed to perfection in fragrant banana leaves. This keto-friendly recipe combines tender tuna marinated in lime juice and salt with an aromatic spice paste made from garlic, shallots, chilies, candlenuts, and warm spices like turmeric and coriander. Enhanced with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and fresh sweet basil, every bite is a vibrant explosion of tropical flavors. The tuna is wrapped in softened banana leaves, locking in moisture and infusing the dish with a subtly earthy aroma as it steams. Ideal for those seeking a healthy yet indulgent meal, this low-carb delight is as visually stunning as it is delicious—perfect for an exotic dinner centerpiece or a fun, hands-on dining experience where guests unwrap their own culinary treasures.

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:30 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 500 grams tuna fillets
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 sheets banana leaves
• 4 units shallots
• 3 units garlic cloves
• 2 units red chili peppers
• 3 units candlenuts
• 1 inch piece ginger
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
• 3 units kaffir lime leaves
• 1 unit lemongrass stalk
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 10 units sweet basil leaves

Directions

Step 1

Start by preparing the spice paste. In a food processor, combine the shallots, garlic, red chili peppers, candlenuts, ginger, turmeric powder, and coriander seeds. Blend until a smooth paste forms.

Step 2

Cut the tuna fillets into pieces and marinate with lime juice and salt. Set aside for 10 minutes.

Step 3

In a skillet, heat coconut oil over medium heat. Add the spice paste and sauté until fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Step 4

Tear the kaffir lime leaves into smaller pieces and crush the lemongrass stalk to release its aroma.

Step 5

Add the kaffir lime leaves and lemongrass to the skillet. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 6

Remove the spice mixture from heat and allow it to cool slightly.

Step 7

Prepare the banana leaves by carefully warming them over an open flame or stove to make them pliable.

Step 8

Lay a banana leaf flat, place a few sweet basil leaves in the center, and add a piece of marinated tuna on top.

Step 9

Cover the tuna with a generous amount of the spice mixture.

Step 10

Fold the banana leaf over the tuna to create a secure package. Use kitchen twine or toothpicks to fasten the ends.

Step 11

Repeat with the remaining tuna and banana leaves.

Step 12

Set a steamer basket over a pot of gently boiling water. Place the banana leaf packages in the basket and steam for 25-30 minutes.

Step 13

Once cooked, remove the packages from the steamer and let them rest for a few minutes.

Step 14

Serve the Pepes Tongkol warm, still wrapped in banana leaves, allowing each guest to open their own parcel at the table for a burst of aroma.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1258.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1500.8

Total Fat 72.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 34.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.5g
Cholesterol 250mg	0%
Sodium 2639.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 56.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 8.4g	0%
Total Sugars 12.7g
Protein 157.4g	0%

Vitamin D 1135IU	0%
Calcium 220.5mg	0%
Iron 16.2mg	0%
Potassium 2397.1mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 43.1%

Protein: 41.9%

Carbs: 15.0%